Experimental models have strongly contributed to the comprehension of the processes of peritoneal damage that take place during peritoneal dialysis treatment in human patients. A variety of peritoneal dialysis models have been developed, mostly using rats and rabbits.
In this study we present the successful development of a custom-made improvised peritoneal catheter for an experimental non-uremic rabbit model of peritoneal dialysis.
A detailed description of the surgical technique of peritoneal catheter implantation, care and removal is provided.
This innovative approach to constructing a peritoneal catheter in rabbit animal model of peritoneal dialysis is easy, reproducible and inexpensive. The surgical technique applied provided adequate tissue samples for both light and electron microscopy.